Today is September 1, the entryway to fall, and the beginning of life getting back to normal.

Ah, normal. School doors reopen, programs get back up and running, the soothing hum of the usual, not to mention cooler, more hospitable weather, all with the flick of the Labor Day switch.

It almost doesn't seem possible that standing between us today and next Tuesday, the last weekend of summer so quickly unleashes commitments and demands on our unsuspecting calendars. Sports. Music practice. Meetings. It is far too easy to go from the carefree schedule of the summer to the time constraints imposed by all of the commitments without pausing to ensure our lives are balanced.

But before the tyranny of the urgent once again claims our agendas, let's take a moment to think of how serving our church family and community will be part of our new year.

Where do you serve?

For some it is in one of our age-specific ministries, either children or students. Others lead CLGs or are part of our Connect teams. For still others, serving in community organizations like The Dam Youth Center or Mississauga Life Center is an important part of their life.

The reality is that serving itself is more important than where you serve.

So before your calendar gets too bogged down with hockey practice and pottery lessons, make some room to serve your community.